I have 2 LS430's that's I'm currently looking into and I would greatly appreciate any comments or suggestions from the CL community.

05' UL w/ PCS - 122k miles for 12k
known issues:
Both front air shocks are needing to be replaced
Spark Plugs need to be changed
Left Front Parking Sensor needs to be replaced.
transmission & diff fluids exchange
TB done around 90k
4 new 18" tires needed

vs

01' UL - 86k miles for 11k
known issues:
valve cover gaskets leaking - need to be replaced
rear shocks leaking
transmission & diff fluids exchange
TB done around 60k

Both have complete service histories from lexus dealers. Regular Oil Changes.

I might be able to buy 2 new air shocks for 1300 total.

Any input would greatly be appreciated.

 

05 that is 4 years newer sounds like better deal to me personally. I typically put new tires on a car I buy almost immediately. Put some Michelin Primacys on it. I would order spark plugs online and change them myself. Fairly easy to do on the LS motor.

Order air shocks and parking sensor online from Sewell and then shop for best labor rate at local Lexus dealers using the OEM parts you ordered.

 

Good used air bags should be cheaper. I got a set of 4 for $450 as backups. The 05 is what I would go with.

 

2005 or keep looking...

 

definitely 05.

 

Don't settle... get '04 and newer if possible.

 

Thanks for all the input.

I eventually settled on the 2005 UL with PCS with 122k miles. Flint Mica. I paid just over 10k.

There were a couple of issues that concerned me, causing my lower offer price.

Right brake caliper may need to be rebuilt due to the pin being not locked in or pushed in all the way so the pin (which is missing apparently) can't lock it in. I don't quite understand it all but I know I'll need new brake pads and rotors front and rear. Once I replace the pads and rotors, I (or a trusted local mech) will see about this front right caliper issue.

Another major issue was the front driver's side wheel has too much "freedom" with "play" vs the passenger side. I clearly saw the front lower control arm bushings needed to be replaced. Cracked significantly. Also the front air struts are leaking. However when going over rough roughs, the whole steering wheel shakes/vibrates/trembles. When driving over smooth roads, nothing (i think).

On the driver's side, would the entire LCA need to be replaced to resolved this issue or would it be possibly be even needing a new tie rod etc?

I was thinking of the services that I would like/need to perform. Any input would greatly be appreciated.

Spark Plugs
LCA bushings
Brake pads/rotors
Right Brake Caliper pin issue
2 Front Air Struts
Side Mirrors - Won't motor "up" direction
Hood Struts - ordered from ebay
Trunk Struts - ordered from ebay
Back lighting on gear shifter doesn't work - I have no idea what's going on there.
New 18" tires.
Diff fluid Change
Transmission fluid change

For now, I'm getting Continental PureContact 235/50/18 Tires put on in a few days for around 780.

Any idea of ranking them in importance, (i.e. do now, can wait, etc.)

I could order the air struts but feel that i would like to take care of the drivers side issue (vibration) at the same time to lower rate labor cost. air struts, LCA bushings, and issue with vibration in a single job

Also, any recommendations for a good mechanic (Toyota dealer or independent mechanic) in the Southern California area for a good job with a lower cost. I've previously spoken with Vinam in Midway City. He quoted me around 295 labor + parts for the LCA bushings job. Any other mechanic recommendations would be greatly appreciated.

Also, any CL member that knows a Toyota or other mechanic that does the labor for less if I bring my own fluids (trans/diff).

Thanks!

 

First thing of importance ....rob a bank, LOL. 10 G's is pretty cheap good luck.

 

$10k for an 05 UL is a steal even with all those issues. $2-$3k repairs and you have yourself a very nice reliable luxury car.